An immunologic mechanism has long been suspected as a key factor in the pathogenesis of certain types of agranulocytosis as well as in syndromes characterized by a paucity of either erythrocytes or platelets. It has been only in the last few years, however, that techniques for the demonstration of blood cell sensitivity phenomena have been developed. Thus, coating antibodies have been discovered in acquired hemolytic anemia, and platelet agglutinins have been demonstrated, at times in exceedingly high titers, in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.* Recently, European workers have reported white blood cell agglutinins in neutropenia and diverse techniques for their in vitro demonstration.†
We have lately observed over a period of many months a patient with idiopathic agranulocytosis in whom white blood cell agglutinins were repeatedly demonstrated. This is, we believe, the first reported case of this type to be presented with autopsy findings.
REPORT OF CASE
First Admission.
—The patient